swelling

noun

swell·​ing ˈswe-liŋ 

1

: something that is swollen

specifically : an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement

2

: the condition of being swollen

Synonyms of swelling

• lump
• bruise
• bump
• nodule
• node

Examples of swelling in a Sentence

There was a swelling above her eye.

The swelling around her eye should subside in a few days.

Recent Examples on the Web

Some of those benefits are reduction in swelling and inflammation, pain relief, lowering of stress levels and fatigue. —Kaleigh Werner, Footwear News, 14 Feb. 2026

Turmeric contains curcumin, an anti-inflammatory chemical that may reduce inflammation and swelling. —Bestreviews, Chicago Tribune, 13 Feb. 2026

Nor do rising physician fees explain the swelling expenses. —Chris Pope, Washington Post, 10 Feb. 2026

Pulmonary embolism is often treatable with prompt care, but unexplained shortness of breath, chest pain, fainting, or new leg swelling require emergency medical attention. —Emily Kay Votruba, EverydayHealth.com, 10 Feb. 2026

Word History

First Known Use

before the 12th century, in the meaning defined at sense 1

Rhymes for swelling

• belling
• celling
• dwelling
• fehling
• felling
• gelling
• pelling
• quelling
• selling
• shelling
• smelling
• spelling

Kids Definition

swelling

noun

swell·​ing

ˈswel-iŋ

1

: something that is swollen

especially : a swollen part of the body

2

: the condition of being swollen

Medical Definition

swelling

noun

swell·​ing ˈswel-iŋ- 

: an abnormal bodily protuberance or localized enlargement

an inflammatory swelling